Staples Gets a Nod for Green Energy

Many of the nation's larger retail companies are moving towards the use of green energy in their facilities and as part of their distribution networks. Staples recently joined twenty-three other organizations in receiving recognition from the United States Environmental Protection Agency for its use of green energy in its stores, warehouses, and distribution centers. This nod for the company's embrace of environmentally sound energy practices is in line with its stated goal of leading the business world in sustainable, ecofriendly practices. As larger companies begin to follow suit, it could have a major impact on the way utilities view their green energy resources and outputs.

Traditional utilities companies often caution businesses to make energy-efficient choices. Whether those companies produce hydroelectric, wind, or coal power, energy efficiency allows users to make the most of their products and helps reduce strain on power grids. The EPA recognition of Staples and similar organizations noted their work towards maximizing efficiency. Maximized efficiency can have a great effect on the amount of energy required of utilities companies, allowing planners to redirect resources towards delivery and network maintenance instead of output. This can dramatically cut down on initial costs for energy production and allow companies to ensure peak performance across their networks.

Another major piece of the EPA recognition is Staples's continued commitment to use renewable energy resources. The company increased the number of facilities under its ownership that use green energy from 80 percent to 100 percent in 2013. This means that all of the stores and warehouses that sell and ship products for the organization now use at least one form of renewable energy. Reliance on these types of resources for energy production can have great benefits for the environment. Many modern utilities companies have already started expanding into solar, wind, and hydroelectric power sources to provide green energy options.

Part of the company's commitment to sustainable energy is the sale of products and services that conform to strict requirements. Staples offers its own brand of ecofriendly products under the Sustainable Earth by Staples tag, and it promotes sales of electronics that meet Energy Star requirements. Many of the products available in Staples stores and online feature certification by the Forest Stewardship Council, Rainforest Alliance, and the EPA.

Utilities must always remain on top of developments in how consumers use their products. Electricity companies regularly strive to maintain peak efficiency, and the move towards green energy production continues across the nation. Staples remains one of the most influential companies driving this shift, and its stated goals include continuing to lead the move to sustainable energy practices. As green energy technology develops, it seems increasingly likely that more and more utilities companies and workers will be involved in the shift to renewable resources and sustainable production in the future.

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